Oxidatively modified autoantigens in autoimmune diseases
Only recently have we begun to change our views on autoimmune conditions. We used to view these conditions as a dysfunction of the immune system–it was attacking our own body and we needed to suppress the immune system to control the disease state. However, once we started taking a much closer look, we started to realize that the immune system was actually performing exactly as it was supposed to.
The problem is that there is excessive oxidative damage to the tissues and the immune system is working to remove this oxidatively damaged tissue. Oxidatively damaged DNA in lupus, oxidatively damaged Type 2 collagen in RA, etc… This can drastically impact the way these conditions need to be treated, and the best method of treatment HAS to include lifestyle modifications to lower overall oxidative stress and inflammation.